A bad blood blister generally appears as a dark, raised area of skin filled with blood that may be intensely painful or show signs of infection.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Color: The blister's color is a key indicator. While new blood blisters are often red, a "bad" one might be a very dark red, purplish, or even black. This darkening suggests a significant amount of blood trapped under the skin.
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Size and Shape: Although not always indicative of severity, larger blisters can be more problematic. An irregularly shaped blister, or one that seems to be rapidly expanding, warrants attention.
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Pain: While all blood blisters can be painful, a "bad" one might cause intense throbbing or a sharp, stinging pain, possibly signaling increased pressure or infection.
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Signs of Infection: This is the most critical indicator of a "bad" blood blister. Look for the following:
- Pus: Any yellowish or greenish discharge.
- Increased Redness: Redness spreading outwards from the blister.
- Swelling: Increased swelling around the blister.
- Warmth: The area around the blister feeling warm to the touch.
- Fever: In severe cases, you might develop a fever.
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Location: Blood blisters in certain locations, such as under the fingernail or toenail, can be particularly painful and prone to infection due to constant pressure and difficulty in keeping them clean.
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Duration: A blood blister that doesn't seem to be healing after a reasonable amount of time (a week or two) or is getting worse instead of better should be considered problematic.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you notice any of the signs of infection listed above, experience severe pain, or have a blood blister in a location that is causing significant discomfort or limiting your ability to function, consult a doctor. Individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems should be particularly vigilant and seek medical advice promptly.
